“Khel Khel Mein,” directed by Mudassar Aziz, is a desi adaptation of the 2016 Italian comedy-drama “Perfect Strangers.” The film features a stellar cast including Akshay Kumar, Taapsee Pannu, Fardeen Khan, Ammy Virk, Vaani Kapoor, Aditya Seal, and Pragya Jaiswal.
The plot revolves around three couples who decide to reveal their secrets through a game involving their phones, leading to unexpected twists and comedic moments. Akshay Kumar excels in his comic role, reminiscent of his performances in “Welcome” and “Hera Pheri.” Taapsee Pannu also shines as a timid Punjabi homemaker who transforms when faced with unusual situations. Fardeen Khan, making a notable comeback, impresses with his pivotal role.
The first half of the film is filled with laughter, while the second half balances drama with humor, ensuring continuous engagement. The movie addresses various themes like trust, love, betrayal, and even touches on subjects like sexuality and abusive work relationships, handled sensitively by the director.
The soundtrack and background score complement the narrative well, enhancing the overall experience. “Khel Khel Mein” is praised for its humor, performances, and the important message it delivers without relying on crude jokes.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Directed by | Mudassar Aziz |
| Screenplay by | Mudassar Aziz, Sara Bodinar |
| Story by | Mudassar Aziz |
| Based on | Perfect Strangers by Paolo Genovese |
| Produced by | Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Vipul D. Shah, Shashikant Sinha, Ashwin Varde, Rajesh Bahl |
| Starring | Akshay Kumar, Ammy Virk, Taapsee Pannu, Vaani Kapoor, Fardeen Khan, Aditya Seal, Pragya Jaiswal |
| Cinematography | Manoj Kumar Khatoi |
| Edited by | Ninad Khanolkar |
| Music by | Score: John Stewart Eduri Songs: Tanishk Bagchi, Rochak Kohli, Guru Randhawa, Raj Ranjodh |
| Production companies | T-Series Films, Wakaoo Films, White World Productions |
| Distributed by | Panorama Studios, AA Films |
| Release date | 15 August 2024 |
| Running time | 131 minutes |
| Country | India |
| Language | Hindi |
| Budget | est. ₹100 crore |
| Box office | est. ₹6.48 crore |
Cast:
- Akshay Kumar as Rishabh Malik
- Ammy Virk as Harpreet Singh
- Taapsee Pannu as Harpreet “Happy” Kaur
- Vaani Kapoor as Vartika Malik
- Fardeen Khan as Kabir Deshmukh
- Aditya Seal as Samar
- Pragya Jaiswal as Naina
- Ishitta Arun as Malti, Naina’s stepmother
- Kiran Kumar as Vartika’s father
- Alka Kaushal as Vartika’s mother
- Maahi Raj Jain as Anaya Malik, Rishabh’s daughter
- Diljot Chhabra as Radhika, Vartika’s sister
- Gaurav Manwane as Varun
- Chitrangada Singh as Kadambari Kapoor (special appearance)
- Bhumi Pednekar as Harpreet’s friend (voice appearance)
- Ananya Panday in a voice appearance
- Arjun Kapoor in a voice appearance
- Jimmy Sheirgill in a voice appearance
- Aparshakti Khurana in a voice appearance
- Sunny Singh in a voice appearance
Production:
Akshay Kumar and Taapsee Pannu were initially cast as the leads for Khel Khel Mein. Later, Fardeen Khan joined the cast, marking his return to films after 14 years. Following this, Vaani Kapoor, Pragya Jaiswal, Ammy Virk, and Aditya Seal were cast in other prominent roles.
Release:
The film was initially scheduled for release on 6 September 2024 but was moved up to 15 August 2024 to coincide with Independence Day.
